Shirley A. Gehr

Shirley A. Gehr, 90, of Leola, passed away peacefully on October 23, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on January 24, 1935, in Millersville, PA, Shirley was the daughter of the late Esther (Bitner, Immel) DeLong and Elvin Immel. She dedicated her life to supporting her family and her beloved husband of 62 years, the late Donald G. Gehr. A devoted wife, mother, and caregiver, Shirley lovingly raised her children while Don worked in New York City, and she also extended her care to many aging and ill family members. Her family was always her top priority, and she cherished every moment spent with them.

Shirley was a woman of many talents. She excelled in baking, sewing, and volunteering. While working in a bakery, she learned the art of cake decorating—skills she used to create one-of-a-kind birthday cakes for her grandchildren. A gifted seamstress, she owned and operated Gehr’s Just Sew in Leola, where she worked tirelessly on custom alterations. She also lent her skills to The Clothes Tree in Millersville, PA. In recent years, she lovingly sewed hundreds of dresses for Operation Christmas Child.

Service to others was a cornerstone of Shirley’s life. She volunteered at the Fulton Theatre and delivered meals for Meals on Wheels—often bringing along small gifts and extra kindness to brighten someone’s day.

A member of Leola United Methodist Church for over 50 years, Shirley served her church faithfully in many capacities, including assisting with Sunday School, communion, office work, and the original “Café.”

Shirley is survived by her four daughters: Holly (Brian Groff), Julie (Drew Hassara), Tracy Wheat (Deb White), and Greta (Tim Grim); nine grandchildren; and eleven great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her sister, Mary Jane (Immel) Duke.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 8, at Leola United Methodist Church, 7 West Main Street Leola, PA 17540.  Family and friends may call from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Interment will follow at Grace United Methodist Church Cemetery, Millersville, PA.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory can be made to Hospice and Community Care, 685 Good Drive PO Box 4125 Lancaster, PA 17604-4125 or The Love Fund at Leola United Methodist Church, 7 West Main Street Leola, PA 17540.